Tom Hardy: Cast banter on set is the key to a successful film

This Means War star
Tom Hardy on the difference between playing action and comedy, banter with his co-stars – and why he is very happy being himself.

Tom Hardy says playing comedy-drama is a totally different skill to action roles (Picture: Getty)

This Means War goes to great lengths to give action fans something different. How does the film reinvigorate the genre?So you have a classic romantic comedy set-up but you put current pistol work in it.You put in really fast cars, helicopters and great outfits, then there’s slick editing and a great soundtrack. You’ve played a fair share of tough guys – what was it like to play a funny guy?I happen to be a spy who falls in love with a girl because he has real needs – and it’s not a comedy any longer – it’s drama, so that was the challenge.How do you make that funny circumstantial comedy, as opposed to a gag, which I don’t do? Between the two romantic suitors for Reese Witherspoon , did you feel closer to your character, Tuck, or Chris Pine ’s?I think I cater more to the Tuck type. The reward for patience is more patience, so most great men go unsung. They don’t go chasing dreams to be noticed. I would, ironically enough, aspire to be that type of man. Who would you choose for Reese?Me! No, I’m very grateful to be me. I’d like to continue to be me and hang out with my missus a bit longer. I have a wonderful wife at home, so I wouldn’t even consider the other options. Did the chemistry between you and Chris come easily?You can never tell what your chemistry’s going to be like with somebody until you hit the floor. With professionals like Chris and Reese, the camaraderie comes from a banter that is a great kick-start to creating a friendship.